Ranger 3 Deeps underground mine, located on the Ranger Project Area, adjacent to Pit 3, was discovered in 2009 and contains an estimated resource of 34,000t of uranium oxide.
The company is investing $120m for the construction of an exploration decline to further define the resource. The construction commenced in May 2012, while closed spaced exploration drilling is expected to begin before June 2013.
ERA will also spend a further $57m for a prefeasibility study to determine the viability of an underground mine.
The company has submitted its proposal to the Commonwealth Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (SEWPaC) under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.
Additionally, ERA has also presented a notice of intent to the Northern Territory Environment Protection Authority under the Environmental Assessment Act.
